Security forces thwart attempted raid on Kaduna church, freeing 31 kidnapped congregation members

n n

FILE IMAGE

n

By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

n

Kaduna — Troops of the Nigerian Army have foiled a terrorist attack and rescued 31 worshippers abducted during an Easter service in Ariko Village, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

n

The swift military response followed a distress call reporting that gunmen had invaded an ECWA Church in the community and whisked away several congregants during the service.

n

Military sources said troops immediately mobilised to the scene and, with support from local residents, pursued the fleeing attackers into nearby areas.

n

“In the course of the operation, troops made contact with the terrorists and engaged them in a fierce firefight. The superior firepower of the troops overwhelmed the criminals, forcing them to abandon 31 hostages,” the source disclosed.

n

Among those rescued was one injured victim, who is currently receiving medical attention.

n

However, the operation recorded casualties, as troops recovered the remains of five victims killed by the attackers before their intervention.

n

Security sources added that the fleeing terrorists appeared to have suffered significant losses, with bloodstains seen along their escape routes, indicating possible casualties.

n

Troops have since intensified pursuit operations to track down the assailants, with a view to rescuing any remaining captives and bringing the perpetrators to justice.

n

Meanwhile, additional troops have been deployed to the area to reinforce security, prevent further attacks, and reassure residents.

n

The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, urging members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to aid ongoing operations.

n

The attack, which occurred during Easter celebrations, had initially thrown the Ariko community into panic before the swift military intervention restored calm.

n n